Camp Olowalu in Lahaina features several cabin camping options, with tentalows available from $95 per night. These structures provide more protection from Maui's occasional strong winds than traditional tent camping. The cabins near Lahaina range from beachfront accommodations to backcountry wilderness options at higher elevations. Temperature variations are significant, with coastal areas remaining warm while higher elevation cabins at Haleakalā can experience temperatures below 40°F.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Camp Olowalu offers affordable equipment rentals directly from the campground. Guests can take guided kayaking tours or rent stand-up paddleboards. "Can take relatively affordable kayaking tours from the campgrounds or rent SUP/kayaks for very affordable rates," notes Tracy Jo I.
Stargazing: The coastal cabins at Camp Olowalu provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities. The area experiences minimal light pollution, making it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. As Esther L. mentions, there's "Little light pollution, great for star gazing."
Birdwatching: Paliku Backcountry Campsite in Haleakalā National Park offers a unique opportunity to observe native Hawaiian birds. The eastern side of the crater features rich biodiversity not found elsewhere. "I can't say that I've ever heard more interesting and diverse bird calls in my life that come from vividly colored native Hawaiian birds that live in this unique habitat," writes Bryce K.
What campers like
Outdoor showers: The shower facilities at Camp Olowalu receive consistent praise for their design and functionality. "The outdoor showers at Camp Olowalu resort are worth the stay in and of themselves. They are works of art, frankly," says Shari G. The hot water availability is particularly appreciated after long hikes or beach activities.
Convenience amenities: Despite being a camping environment, several cabins near Lahaina offer unexpected conveniences. Camp Olowalu provides morning refreshments for early risers, as Valerie S. notes: "Free coffee for early risers." The availability of dishwashing stations and phone charging areas adds to the comfort.
Contrasting landscapes: The transition from barren volcanic terrain to lush vegetation makes Paliku Backcountry Campsite particularly memorable. "After trekking nearly 10 miles from the visitor center to get here, you'll be welcomed to take your boots off and step on the lush grass that grows all over the campsite, quite the contrast from all of the 'a'a lava you've just been walking through," explains Bryce K.
What you should know
Noise considerations: The location of Camp Olowalu near the main road creates periodic traffic noise, particularly during daytime hours. The campground experiences natural early morning disturbances as well. Valerie S. advises, "Like most camping in Hawaii, bring your earplugs for the roosters."
Water safety: At backcountry cabin locations such as Haleakalā National Park, water treatment is essential. Surface water requires filtration before consumption. "Water filters are a necessity as the water here is non-potable," explains Bryce K. regarding Paliku Backcountry Campsite.
Weather preparedness: Wind conditions can significantly impact the camping experience, especially in open areas. "Beware the wind! Because it's open air with no shielding trees, sooo many people evacuated to sleep in cars or resigned to/woke up to collapsed tents because of high winds," warns Tracy Jo I. about Camp Olowalu.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: When booking cabin accommodations with children, consider proximity to facilities versus privacy. At Camp Olowalu, Valerie S. explains, "Some of the sites seemed close together but we stayed at the end and had good privacy with the trade off of a long trip to the bathrooms."
Wildlife awareness: Children should be supervised around the local wildlife, particularly the chickens that roam freely through some campgrounds. "Don't turn your back on the chickens. They'll get into your vehicle if given the chance," cautions Stephanie from her experience at Camp Olowalu.
Supply planning: Local markets provide convenient access to provisions for family cabin stays. "Right across the main road you'll find a huge fruit stand market with lots of options, and within a few short miles there are dozens of restaurant options, and grocery stores," notes Shari G.
Tips from RVers
Parking situation: The campground layout at Camp Olowalu presents challenges for RV and van campers. "We stayed in the camper van area, and while there was plenty of room and a nice picnic table, but it was exactly like camping on the perimeter of a large parking lot," explains Shari G.
Pre-flight convenience: Using cabin facilities before departing Hawaii can be strategic for comfort. "If camping on Maui, definitely worth it for the last night of the trip for a good shower before flying home," recommends Stephanie about the facilities at Camp Olowalu.
Pricing strategies: The fee structure at some locations varies between adults and children, with different enforcement practices. Jordan T. notes, "While it's expensive for adults ($20/person), let's just say that the people that run this place aren't that interested in checking that your party is actually the size you say it is or that you have the correct number of adults vs. kids (kids are $5)."
